It's been an interesting week for those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. The Mattel toy company announced the release of the first Barbie doll that has Autism. In recent years, Barbie has been a champion for diversity and inclusion, and many see this campaign as a positive thing. A refreshing perspective considering many in the mainstream media have viewed autism as a negative (i.e. something was wrong with them, how do we fix it?).
Regardless of any personal views on Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is undeniable that this special population is real, present and in need. Yet are being failed by our neurotypical institutions. So what can we do to help?
As a personal trainer, I can share my thoughts on how the fitness industry can help better serve the needs of the neurodiverse.
Autistic populations often have a complicated relationship with fitness and athletics. It is not because they are incapable of exercise, but largely because our fitness systems are not conducive to their learning needs. Gyms are often loud, bright, crowded environments. Coaches and teammates can be ignorant to the learning styles of neurodiverse people and can easily isolate/intimidate them, instead of applying simple modifications to their training session.
I've recently completed a learning module on how to better train people with autism. I'd like to share some of the take home messages that have been helpful.
1) Try to schedule training sessions during times the gym is less busy. Alternatively, you can go to their safe space (e.g. home, park) instead of a traditional gym setting.
2) Can you adjust the lighting and TV/music volume during their session? If not, allowing them to wear headphones, ear plugs, shades or hoodies may soften the environment. I've realized that clients wearing headphones are not necessarily being rude to me, its actually an assisted sensory device.
3) Other sounds such as the clanging of metal objects can be overwhelming. This can be managed simply by placing towels between metal objects thereby dampening the sound.
4) Sensory and tactile needs can take many forms. Some may not like the feel of cold iron weights. Switching to alternative tools such as rubber coated weights, resistance bands or medicine balls are often more tolerable. They may also benefit from using gloves.
5) Incorporate of their love of counting and repetitive tasks by emphasizing these features of a workout. Let's count reps and sets. Do time check ins regularly to appeal to their need for structure and routine. Harnessed wisely, this is one of their secret weapons!
6) Sensory and tactile tools are invaluable in these situations. Many toys/tools have been designed to assist autistics while performing otherwise boring tasks. Fun timers, spinning toys and buttons, squishy balls can all help make workouts more appealing.
These are just a few ideas that fitness professionals can use to help train the neurodiverse.
It all boils down to a trainers ability to be patient, flexible, creative and adaptive. It has been my personal experience that communication and modification saves sessions. Its not that hard if you keep an open mind. Instead of viewing autistics as problem clients, maybe fitness pros should change their perspective. Are we (neurotypical fitness professionals) skilled enough to train them (neurodiverse autistics)?
As Sam Holenss (the first autistic Ironman) would tell us, Anything Is Possible!
(Read more about his inspiring story here: https://www.bbc.com/sport/triathlon/67214919)
N.B. I am not a medical doctor or health care provider. I am a certified personal trainer and fitness professional. I continue to learn more about ASD and am trying to make the gym a better place for everyone.
